Only in January did we start getting this candidate several interviews, at one mid-sized firm and even two Big Law firms in Los Angeles and Orange County. Of these latter three firms, the midsized firm was the first to reach out wanting to interview my candidate. Only after we had scheduled his second in-person interview did the two Big Law firms show up. Unfortunately, the Big Law firms were screening several people, and their process was extended. By the time my candidate got an offer at the mid-sized firm, he had only had first screener interviews with the two Big Law firms. While my candidate was excited at the idea of working at a Big Law firm, he recognized that the mid-sized firm was already a big step up (in terms of both prestige and salary), and he had already put his two weeks notice in with his current firm, so he couldn't afford to turn down his offer with the mid-sized firm in the hope that one of the Big Law firms would work out. It was too much of a risk.
This candidate taught me several lessons. Firstly, 2016 candidates are just now starting to get traction. This candidate is a general commercial litigator at a small firm, and his applications only really started to pick up in February. Secondly, it is helpful to apply broadly. This candidate allowed me to submit him to all sort of firms, from very small to Big Law, and we were able to get him interviews at two mid-sized firms and two Big Law firms. He did not get disheartened when we didn't get him traction for the first several months, but kept approving firms, realizing that he would only become more marketable as the time passed. Thirdly, timing sometimes doesn't work out. The candidate would have, of course, preferred to go to one of the Big Law firms that he had gotten interviews at, both for prestige and salary reasons, but he recognized that the mid-sized firm was already a great opportunity for him, and he didn't want to jeopardize it. Fourthly, it's a good idea to wait and put in your two weeks notice only after everything is 100% signed and sealed with the firm at which you're accepting the offer. My candidate felt compelled to accept the mid-sized firm offer, partially because he had already put in his two weeks notice at his current firm. Had this not been the case, we may have been able to either turn down the offer with the mid-sized firm, or extend the acceptance deadline in order to see what happened with the Big Law firms.
About Harrison Barnes
Harrison Barnes is a prominent figure in the legal placement industry, known for his expertise in attorney placements and his extensive knowledge of the legal profession.
With over 25 years of experience, he has established himself as a leading voice in the field and has helped thousands of lawyers and law students find their ideal career paths.
Barnes is a former federal law clerk and associate at Quinn Emanuel and a graduate of the University of Chicago College and the University of Virginia Law School. He was a Rhodes Scholar Finalist at the University of Chicago and a member of the University of Virginia Law Review. Early in his legal career, he enrolled in Stanford Business School but dropped out because he missed legal recruiting too much.
Barnes' approach to the legal industry is rooted in his commitment to helping lawyers achieve their full potential. He believes that the key to success in the legal profession is to be proactive, persistent, and disciplined in one's approach to work and life. He encourages lawyers to take ownership of their careers and to focus on developing their skills and expertise in a way that aligns with their passions and interests.
One of how Barnes provides support to lawyers is through his writing. On his blog, HarrisonBarnes.com, and BCGSearch.com, he regularly shares his insights and advice on a range of topics related to the legal profession. Through his writing, he aims to empower lawyers to control their careers and make informed decisions about their professional development.
One of Barnes's fundamental philosophies in his writing is the importance of networking. He believes that networking is a critical component of career success and that it is essential for lawyers to establish relationships with others in their field. He encourages lawyers to attend events, join organizations, and connect with others in the legal community to build their professional networks.
Another central theme in Barnes' writing is the importance of personal and professional development. He believes that lawyers should continuously strive to improve themselves and develop their skills to succeed in their careers. He encourages lawyers to pursue ongoing education and training actively, read widely, and seek new opportunities for growth and development.
In addition to his work in the legal industry, Barnes is also a fitness and lifestyle enthusiast. He sees fitness and wellness as integral to his personal and professional development and encourages others to adopt a similar mindset. He starts his day at 4:00 am and dedicates several daily hours to running, weightlifting, and pursuing spiritual disciplines.
Finally, Barnes is a strong advocate for community service and giving back. He volunteers for the University of Chicago, where he is the former area chair of Los Angeles for the University of Chicago Admissions Office. He also serves as the President of the Young Presidents Organization's Century City Los Angeles Chapter, where he works to support and connect young business leaders.
In conclusion, Harrison Barnes is a visionary legal industry leader committed to helping lawyers achieve their full potential. Through his work at BCG Attorney Search, writing, and community involvement, he empowers lawyers to take control of their careers, develop their skills continuously, and lead fulfilling and successful lives. His philosophy of being proactive, persistent, and disciplined, combined with his focus on personal and professional development, makes him a valuable resource for anyone looking to succeed in the legal profession.
About BCG Attorney Search
BCG Attorney Search matches attorneys and law firms with unparalleled expertise and drive, while achieving results. Known globally for its success in locating and placing attorneys in law firms of all sizes, BCG Attorney Search has placed thousands of attorneys in law firms in thousands of different law firms around the country. Unlike other legal placement firms, BCG Attorney Search brings massive resources of over 150 employees to its placement efforts locating positions and opportunities its competitors simply cannot. Every legal recruiter at BCG Attorney Search is a former successful attorney who attended a top law school, worked in top law firms and brought massive drive and commitment to their work. BCG Attorney Search legal recruiters take your legal career seriously and understand attorneys. For more information, please visit www.BCGSearch.com.
